I had thought that I would have to return to UAL to retire, but both ALPA's and the companies' furlough reps said that we could retire directly from furlough, if we meet the minimum requirements for retirement. I believe it was 10 years of service (I have that) and 50 years old (not there yet hence the 18 more months).
No ZED fares for furloughees that I am aware of. We do get passes on UAL, and I believe on CAL now. I use the passes all the time going back to the US from Beijing.

ZED fares on Star would be nice. I believe we also get medical benefits, which will hopefully cover my ObamaCare mandate, if that ever comes to fruition.